About the role

As the Childcare Centre Cook, you will play an important role in supporting the health, wellbeing and daily experiences of children at Sherbrooke Family and Children’s Centre. You will plan nutritious weekly menus, prepare and serve meals and snacks, and ensure all food provided meets the dietary, cultural and developmental needs of children from birth to school age. You will work closely with educators, leaders and families to deliver a safe, inclusive and enjoyable food program.

You will also be responsible for maintaining high food safety standards and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently and safely. This includes managing food safety records, monitoring food storage and handling practices, maintaining kitchen equipment and supplies, and supporting compliance with food safety requirements. Success in this role means children receive nutritious meals, dietary needs are consistently met, and the kitchen remains safe, organised and compliant

- This is a full-time permanent (38 hours per week) band 3 role with a salary range between $70,475 and $73,306 per annum, plus superannuation.
- Support work-life balance with your choice of monthly or fortnightly rostered day off and hybrid working arrangements.
- 20 weeks paid primary caregiver leave (6 weeks for secondary caregivers) plus other generous leave options such as volunteer leave, family planning and menstrual and menopause leave.
- Opportunities for professional development and to take on temporary roles in other teams to grow your skills and experience.
- Novated lease vehicle options.

Experience and skills we’re looking for

- Experience preparing and cooking meals in a commercial kitchen, childcare setting or similar environment.
- Knowledge of secure food handling practices and food safety requirements.
- Experience planning nutritious menus for a range of dietary, cultural and allergy-related needs.
- The ability to maintain accurate records and documentation relating to food safety and kitchen operations.
- Experience managing food ordering,



stock control and kitchen supplies in a cost-effective manner.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and daily meal schedules.
- The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team environment.
- Well-developed communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.
- A commitment to maintaining a clean, safe and well-organised kitchen environment.
- A trade qualification in commercial cookery, food preparation or a related field is highly regarded but not essential.

If you have some but not all these skills or experience, we still encourage you to apply. Especially if you have the right attitude and willingness to learn.

How to apply

Please ensure you submit your application via our jobs portal by clicking ‘Apply’. Include a resume and cover letter with your application. In your cover letter, tell us about your experience, skills, and why you would like to work with us here at Yarra Ranges Council.

Applications close 11.59pm, Sunday the 1st of November, 2026.

Contact person: Sarah Arms, Operational Leader, 03 9294 6565.

If you need support with your application or have accessibility needs, please call the contact person above or email us at [email protected].

Applicants who progress past the interview stage must complete pre-employment checks. These checks will include a Police Check, Working with Children Check, Medical Check.

About Yarra Ranges Council

Yarra Ranges Council committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. We encourage people of all genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities to apply for jobs with us. We support flexible work arrangements, including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and job-sharing options to meet your needs and suit your life.

Yarra Ranges Council is a child safe organisation and is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people in our community. We are committed to protecting children from abuse in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.

📌 Childcare Centre Cook (Victoria)
🏢 Yarra Ranges Council
📍 Victoria